Mission and objectivesThe mission of the World Food Programme (WFP) is to end global hunger. As the food assistance branch of the United Nations, WFP works to save lives in emergencies, improve nutrition, and build long-term resilience in vulnerable communities. Through humanitarian and development efforts, WFP aims to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against hunger. To achieve this mission, WFP has established five strategic objectives for 2022โ2025: Save lives in emergencies and deliver food assistance in times of crisis. Improve nutrition and ensure that no one is left behind. Build resilience for food security and nutrition in fragile settings. Support countries in achieving zero hunger through sustainable food systems. Partner effectively for coordinated humanitarian and development response. WFPโs efforts are guided by the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence, working closely with governments, communities, and partners to achieve a world with zero hunger.
ContextThe project Innovative Strengthening of Climate Resilience in Sustainable and Nutritious Agri-Food Systems is financed by the Government of Japan and implemented jointly with JICA โ Ecuador. Its objective is to enhance climate resilience and food security for vulnerable populations, especially women, by promoting sustainable agri-food systems and improving access to innovative climate risk management tools and services. Within this framework, the UN Volunteer will provide specialized support in smart agriculture and agricultural insurance to develop climate models for agri-food systems in the provinces of Imbabura and Manabรญ, working in collaboration with local producer organizations. The volunteer will also support the project team in designing strategies related to parametric micro-insurance and the climate change component, with a particular focus on threats such as intense rainfall, aiming to reduce the vulnerability of farmers and their families. Additionally, the volunteer will join WFPโs Strategic Outcome 3 (SO3) team to foster dialogue and develop new proposals focused on climate change adaptation, climate finance, and other ecosystem-based strategies.
Task DescriptionUnder the direct supervision of Project Coordinator, SO3 National Officer, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: 1. Provide technical support in the design and structuring of agricultural micro-insurance schemes, with the objective of enhancing farmers' access to financial products and risk transfer mechanisms as part of their adaptive capacity to increase resilience to climate change. 2. Systematize processes, outcomes, and lessons learned from the implementation of the micro-insurance initiative, and prepare technical reports to share key findings, good practices, and recommendations for replication and scaling. 3. Conduct cost-benefit analyses of climate change adaptation measures implemented under Strategic Outcome 3 (SO3), providing evidence-based insights to guide deci-sion-making and improve the effectiveness of future interventions. 4. Draft and develop concept notes and technical proposals for submission to climate finance mechanisms, such as the Green Climate Fund or Adaptation Fund, to mobilize resources for ecosystem-based adaptation and climate-resilient food systems. 5. Facilitate technical dialogues and capacity-building sessions with local producer or-ganizations and stakeholders, focusing on climate risk management tools, smart agri-culture practices, and the integration of gender-responsive approaches. 6. Contribute to the design and implementation of early warning systems and risk map-ping tools for climate-related threats (e.g., excessive rainfall), tailored to the needs of vulnerable communities in the provinces of Imbabura and Manabรญ.
Competencies and valuesยท Adaptability and Flexibility ยท Building Trust ยท Commitment and Motivation ยท Communication ยท Creativity ยท Empowering Others ยท Ethics and Values ยท Integrity ยท Knowledge Sharing ยท Leadership ยท Managing Performance ยท Planning and Organizing ยท Professionalism ยท Self-Management ยท Technological Awareness ยท Working in Teams
Living conditions and remarksQuito is the capital of Ecuador; its population is of approximately two million three hundred thousand inhabitants. WFP premises are located the central-north zone of the city, around 20 minutes by car from the commercial and business area. There are no specific residential areas for expatriates, but some mid/high-class neighbourhoods are in commuting distance from WFPโs offices. Quito sits at an altitude of around 2,800 metres, meaning travellers arriving from sea level experience a rapid elevation gain. This sudden change can sometimes lead to altitude sickness, which may cause headaches, nausea, or insomnia. If symptoms occur, they can usually be managed by staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest and taking aspirin. Travellers on medication should also ensure they bring any necessary prescriptions with them. Ecuador is classified as a Level 3 security risk by UNDSS due to high levels of criminal activity. To stay safe during your visit, we recommend the following precautions: ยท Keep important documents, such as your passport, in a secure place and carry a copy with you. ยท Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying valuable items. ยท Use official taxis or trusted transportation services, especially at night. ยท Stay informed about safe areas and avoid high-crime zones. ยท In case of emergency, dial 911 for assistance. Although a private car is not mandatory, is recommended that foreign staff and visitors use taxi services, at least until they get familiar with the addresses and context. There are several taxi companies that provide safe door-to-door services. There is public transportation (metro, bus, trolleybus) in the main avenues and also in the most populated neighbourhoods. There are some dedicated lanes for bicycles, but it is important to consider Quitoโs altitude (2800 MASL) and hills. WFP Ecuador premises in Quito are located at Citimed building complex. The building hosts several medical offices and clinics, so it has proper accessibility for persons with disability (ramps, elevators, wide aisles, etc.). Ecuador provides the opportunity to explore various environments and regions within a relatively short travel time and distance. From the highlands and volcanoes to the Amazonian jungle, the Galapagos Islands and the coastal region, there is a diverse array of destinations to discover. This presents UN Volunteers with an excellent chance to enrich their personal experiences during their assignment. International Specialist Volunteers will receive the following benefits: International health insurance with 100% coverage (including dental care) for the volunteer and eligible dependents. Life and permanent disability insurance. A monthly allowance of $2455.13 to cover essential needs. Training opportunities through the UNV e-campus, with access to hundreds of courses and external platforms, including language learning.